Beach Dresses for Women Over 50 That Are Flattering, Breezy, and So Easy to Wear

When the weather heats up, I find myself reaching for easy, breezy dresses I can throw on and go. A good beach dress makes life simple, just slip it on over your swimsuit, add some sandals, and you’re ready for whatever the day brings!

If you’re over 50 and want styles that are flattering, comfortable, and still feel cute, you’re in the right place. Since I’m heading to the beach in a couple of days, I’m sharing the beach dresses I love most, plus a few tips to help you find one that fits and flatters you, too!

Beach Dresses for Women Over 50

What is a Beach Dress, Anyway?

If you’re wondering what counts as a beach dress, you’re not alone. The term gets thrown around a lot, and it can mean different things depending on the day.

To me, a beach dress is any dress that’s easy to slip on, comfortable enough for hot weather, and casual enough to wear with sandals or flip-flops. It’s something you can throw over a swimsuit, wear out for lunch, or pack in your beach bag without worrying about wrinkles.

Some beach dresses are technically swimsuit cover-ups, light, sheer, and made to wear just around the pool or ocean. Others are more like casual summer dresses you could wear to dinner or sightseeing. And then there are the in-between ones, cute enough for a day out but still breezy enough to wear at the beach or pool.

What to Look for in a Beach Dress Over 50

Let’s start with the basics. Here are a few things I always look for when shopping for beach dresses:

1. Breathable Fabrics
   Lightweight cotton, gauze, linen, and rayon are your best friends in hot weather. These fabrics allow air to circulate and help you stay dry, especially if you’re wearing your dress over a damp swimsuit.
2. Flattering Silhouettes
   A-line shapes, tiered skirts, and empire waists can all work wonders. If you carry more weight in the middle (and I know I’m not alone there), look for styles that skim the waist without hugging too tightly.
3. Adjustable Details
   Drawstrings, tie waists, or wrap styles give you some flexibility to customize the fit. That’s especially helpful if your body tends to fluctuate a little during the summer months, mine sure does after a few ice cream cones!
4. Coverage Where You Want It
   Many of us prefer a little more coverage on our upper arms or décolletage. Look for cap sleeves, flutter sleeves, or wide straps that allow for a regular bra.
5. Versatility
   A good beach dress should work for more than just the sand. I like pieces that can go from the pool to lunch to a sunset stroll without missing a beat.

My Favorite Styles of Beach Dresses

Let’s break down a few of the styles I reach for again and again.

1. Tiered Maxi Dresses

These are such a fun and flattering option. The tiers help create movement without clinging to the body. They’re usually made from soft, breathable fabrics and are easy to dress up or down. I love them in tropical prints or simple solid colors.

2. Shirtdresses

A classic shirtdress is great if you want something a little more tailored but still relaxed. Look for one in a lightweight linen or cotton blend. Bonus points if it buttons all the way down, that makes it easier to throw on over a swimsuit.

3. Kaftans and Tunics

Kaftans are a no-brainer for beach vacations. They’re flowy, forgiving, and feel a little glamorous. Some even come with embroidery or tassel details that make them feel extra special.

4. Midi or Maxi Dresses with Wide Straps

If you prefer not to wear strapless bras, you’ll love a midi or maxi dress with wide, bra-friendly straps. These are usually more structured and can work well for beach dinners or casual events.

5. T-Shirt Dresses

You know I love a good t-shirt dress. They’re simple, casual, and usually made of cotton, which is perfect for hot days. You can tie a little knot at the hem, add a tee or button-up on top, or add a belt for some shape.

My Beach Dress Picks for the Season

Here are some beach dresses I’ve either tried, ordered, or have my eye on this summer:

If you’re going to be out in the sun, this is one of those practical-but-still-cute dresses you’ll want on hand. It’s quick-drying, super breathable, and has built-in UPF 50+ protection. Perfect for beach walks, boat days, or any time you want a little extra coverage without overheating.

I love a good flowy dress, and this one has the prettiest floral print. The puff sleeves and collar give it a little structure, while the loose fit keeps things easy and comfortable. Wear it with sandals during the day, then add earrings and wedges for dinner out!

This shirtdress is giving coastal classic! The cotton fabric is breathable, and the stripe makes it feel timeless and polished. Toss it over a swimsuit as a cover-up or wear it buttoned up with white sneakers or slides for a casual, put-together outfit.

This summer dress is all about the details, cute puff sleeves, a tie front, and flattering tiers. It’s flattering and flowy, and you can dress it up or down depending on your plans. I’d wear it for a beach day or even a summer cookout!

This dress is so feminine and fresh! The square neckline and stretchy straps are super flattering, and the A-line shape flows nicely over the hips. It’s great for lunch with friends, vacation dinners, or even an outdoor wedding!

You gurls already know I love a wrinkle-free clothing item! You can just pull this maxi dress out of your suitcase without steaming or ironing for your next adventure. Black is easy to dress up, but it comes in alllll the colors from classic neutrals and pastels to bold reds and royal blues!

The pattern on this maxi is absolutely gorgeous. The colors make me think of a dress I’d wear to Greece! The fit is forgiving without being oversized, making it one of those dresses you’ll want to wear all summer long.

This dress is one of those easy summer staples you’ll want to live in, gurls! The fabric is buttery soft with just the right amount of stretch, and it drapes beautifully without clinging. I love that it has a tie waist to give you a little shape, and the sleeveless style is perfect for hot days. You can throw it on with flip-flops for running errands or dress it up with a jean jacket and jewelry for dinner out. It’s casual, comfy, and still looks pulled together, my kind of beach dress!

Here’s something a bit more bold and fun for your next trip! I love a good animal print. You could easily slip this dress on over your swimsuit for a quick poolside lunch, or dress it up with a wedge and jewelry for dinner!

Speaking of fun, this colorful cover-up doubles as a sundress! It’s perfect for strolling the beach, looking for shells, or grabbing an ice cream cone on the boardwalk. You could even toss it on over leggings with a pair of flip-flops for a comfy, modest outfit that still feels cute.

What a great maxi dress! The off-the-shoulder detail is adorable and adds just the right amount of flirty fun without showing too much. And yes, it has pockets! Perfect for slipping your phone or room key in when you’re on the go. It’s one of those dresses that’s just made for a beach trip, cruise, or tropical getaway!

Here’s another classy, timeless option to add to your summer wardrobe! The striped shirtdress is one of those pieces that never go out of style. It hits at that just-right length for us ladies over 50, not too short, not too long, and the relaxed fit keeps things comfy without looking frumpy. You can wear it buttoned up as a dress or open over a tank and shorts as a lightweight layer. It’s simple, stylish, and so easy to wear.

This is the kind of dress you should pack for every beach trip! It’s sleeveless with a relaxed fit and subtle button detail, and it works just as well with flip-flops at the beach as it does with a sunhat and tote for sightseeing.

Linen dresses keep you feeling cool and comfortable since they are so lightweight and breathable. This one has a relaxed fit that makes it easy to wear. A go-to for coastal trips or even brunch by the water! I’d add a raffia belt for shape, or wear it loose over my swimsuit.

This caftan dress is made for the beach. It’s bold, breezy, and feels like a glam cover-up you’d wear at a resort. You can throw it on over your swimsuit and still feel totally put together when you head to lunch or the hotel lobby.

What dresses are you packing for your next trip to the beach?

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